7 Myths about Hackers and What You Really Need to Look For

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Popular culture has driven home a stereotype about hackers as computer wizards able to peer into our secure data—but there are some common myths about hackers and hacking that don’t necessarily hold up to scrutiny, and if you know what hackers can and can’t do, you’re in a better position to make sure your data remains safe. Take a look at seven common misconceptions about hacking and what you should really be worried about instead, brought to you by Mental Floss and Discover.

1. Myth: Hackers only attack huge companies.

When security breaches make the news, it’s usually because a major software platform or consumer service entity has been attacked. But that doesn’t mean information stored in mid-size or small companies is safe. Plenty of comparatively small businesses have been the focus of cyberattacks, with valuable information (social security numbers, addresses) left exposed.

Hackers might even use third-party credentials as a way to gain access to major partners. As a consumer, you should always assume your data is potentially at risk, no matter the size of the database. Luckily, there are tools out there that will let you know if your information is at risk. With Discover’s Free Security Alerts, once you’re a cardmember, you can sign up for free alerts, and Discover will let you know if they find your Social Security number on any of thousands of Dark Web sites. Learn more at Discover.com.

2. Myth: Hackers aren’t organized.

Hackers are not only organized, they’re happy to trade information in an illicit network of tips and technique-sharing. It would be inadvisable to think cyber-criminals take a hobbyist’s approach to mining your data. Plan security measures as though stealing your information was a full-time job.

3. Myth: Hackers rush to get in and out of systems.

Hackers don’t treat system breaches like bank robberies. They’re not usually concerned with a ticking clock, and many take a slow and methodical approach to get the data they want. If you’re concerned with possible security lapses, don’t expect a criminal will dip in and quickly disappear.

4. Myth: Hackers can’t see you when you’re browsing incognito.

Many web browsers offer private or “incognito” modes that claim to hide your internet activity. But that’s not entirely true. While data may not be saved on your local device, it’s still visible to your internet service provider (ISP). Never assume that information sent over during a “private” session is really private. It should be subject to the same security measures as any other online transaction.

5. Myth: Hackers can’t compromise smart phones.

While databases and computers are more easily compromised, hackers can absolutely exploit your smart phone. Some hacks require the criminal to be in physical proximity to your device, but others utilize apps to grab confidential information. Make sure things downloaded to your phone come from a trusted source.

6. Myth: Hackers can only grab data if users download a malware file.

Getting victims to open an .exe, or executable, file as an email attachment is an effective way to install damaging software on a computer, but that’s not the only way hackers can compromise your information. Visiting web sites can allow them to surreptitiously share files that can divulge your secure data. It’s always best to avoid visiting web sites you’re not familiar with, especially if you’ve been prompted to open them via an email link.

7. Myth: Hackers can’t intercept emails.

Hackers are more than capable of not only accessing your email account but examining messages sent out to third parties. Instead of using a password that’s easy to remember, choose one that’s complex to provide better security. You should also consider an email encryption tool that would make any intercepted communication impossible for cyber-criminals to read.

Although sometimes blown out of proportion, the threat of hackers is very real for your personal information. Discover’s Free Security Alerts will help you to protect yourself by monitoring thousands of Dark Web sites and alerting you if they find your social security number or if new accounts appear on your Experian® credit report. The service is free for cardmembers who sign up and is a great step to putting you in the know. Terms apply. Learn more at Discover.com.

This Smart Accessory Converts Your Instant Pot Into an Air Fryer

If you can make a recipe in a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or rice cooker, you can likely adapt it for an Instant Pot. Now, this all-in-one cooker can be converted into an air fryer with one handy accessory.

This Instant Pot air fryer lid—currently available on Amazon for $80—adds six new cooking functions to your 6-quart Instant Pot. You can select the air fry setting to get food hot and crispy fast, using as little as 2 tablespoons of oil. Other options include roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and reheat.

Many dishes you would prepare in the oven or on the stovetop can be made in your Instant Pot when you switch out the lids. Chicken wings, French fries, and onion rings are just a few of the possibilities mentioned in the product description. And if you're used to frying being a hot, arduous process, this lid works without consuming a ton of energy or heating up your kitchen.

The lid comes with a multi-level air fry basket, a broiling and dehydrating tray, and a protective pad and storage cover. Check it out on Amazon.

For more clever ways to use your Instant Pot, take a look at these recipes.

At Mental Floss, we only write about the products we love and want to share with our readers, so all products are chosen independently by our editors. Mental Floss has affiliate relationships with certain retailers and may receive a percentage of any sale made from the links on this page. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication.

The 5 Best Financial Gifts You Can Give Yourself This Holiday Season

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Between the gifts, parties, and other obligations of the holiday season, it might seem like smarter financial choices will have to wait. But just because you’re spending a little more than usual doesn’t mean you can’t put your financial planning into sharper focus. To help you get started, here are the best financial gifts you can give yourself this holiday season to prepare for a great 2020 and beyond, presented by Discover and Mental Floss. There are small steps you can take immediately to give your finances a boost, like using the Discover it card, which rewards you on every purchase you make with the card. And then there’s long-term planning, like retirement funds, that will help solidify your financial future.

1. Learn how to budget your money.

Plenty of people set spending limits on home expenses, entertainment, clothing, and other expenditures. But sometimes, these amounts need adjusting, especially as life and financial situations change over time. Consider sitting down at the end of the month and examining where all of your money went—from there you can spot unnecessary spending and find ways to fix it.

2. Take advantage of your credit card rewards.

Cash back, mileage, or promotional interest offers—credit cards offer a variety of incentives, but not everyone takes the time to analyze the offers. Don’t let free money pass you by—look into what rewards programs your card offers and take advantage of these financial gifts that are just waiting for you. With the Discover it card, for example, you can earn rewards on every purchase you make. Plus, Discover matches all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year! It’s unlimited, too, so those weekly coffees you’re trying to fit into your budget can be paid for by money you’ve already earned. Learn more at Discover.com/match.

3. Evaluate your insurance coverage.

Some of us secure home or car insurance and then never think about it again. It’s better to assess your coverage periodically to make sure you’re financially protected for things that are important and consider gap coverage if your policy is lacking. It’s better to spend a little more in policy premiums now than be hit with an unforeseen hardship later. Alternately, you might find your premiums can be lowered owing to a new home improvement project, like new water pipes or an updated roof.

4. Start a retirement plan.

Don’t fall into the trap of putting off retirement savings until you snag a salary increase or reduce expenses. Every year you fail to feed a 401(k), IRA, Roth IRA, or other nest egg means one less year you’ll accrue in your pursuit of saving for life after work. Remember that your employer may offer matching and tax-deferred options for diverting some of your income. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time to learn how to start a retirement fund—the sooner, the better.

5. Save for big purchases.

It can be hard to save money—it involves careful planning, a realistic strategy, and most importantly, cutting back a bit. But the benefits far outweigh the negatives. So if you don’t have one already, set up a savings account this holiday season and start putting some money away every month. It doesn’t even have to be you that does it—ask your bank or employer’s payroll department if they can set up an automated process to save the money for you. So next time you have your eye on a big trip or want to buy a new 4K television, you’ll have a nest egg waiting to pay for it. And big purchases lead to big cashback bonuses, so be sure to take advantage whenever you can.

You can take one step to financial stability with the Discover it® Card—which automatically matches all the cash back you earn, dollar for dollar, at the end of your first year. Learn more at Discover.com/match.